Moving to Mysore

A keen Ashtanga yogini, Becky Pell sets out to discover the Mysore style, on an inner journey towards self-practice and spiritual enlightenment

Becky Pell

‘C‘ome to the other end of the room today. You’re ready for self-practice.’

So began my journey from the comfort and security of a guided Ashtanga practice, to the inner focus and self-reliance of practicing Mysore-style. I remember my alarm when my teacher (Sarah Vaughan, founder of The Yoga Hutch (theyogahutch.com) in Surbiton, first coaxed me away from my safety net many years ago (how on earth will I remember the sequence? Everyone else knows what they’re doing!) and I also remember the lightbulb moment, 90 minutes later, as I lay in Savasana. This was how the practice became an embodiment of concentration (Dharana). This was how it became so instinctive that it could evolve into a moving meditation (Dhyana). This was yoga.

About OM Yoga Magazine

Welcome to the April issue of OM Yoga & Lifestyle magazine. Inside, we look at some of the best yoga retreats taking place this summer, the ideal way to elevate your practice whether you’re an experienced practitioner or a beginner. Going on a retreat is the perfect way to kickstart any healthy new lifestyle so if you haven’t tried one yet, why not give it a go? Make the time for yourself and your body, mind and soul will love you for it. We’ve also got lots of other inspirational stories and ideas to spur you on this month, including plenty of practical yoga tips, healthy eating recipes and insight from leading experts and instructors. Read on for more great yoga content that will elevate your practice both on and off the mat. Have a great month, folks, and I hope to see you on the mat soon.